Brexit: application of European drug precursors legislation

date:

29/04/2019

When the United Kingdom (UK) leaves the European Union (EU) this will have consequences for the trade in drug precursors. Different scenarios are possible.

Brexit with an agreement

When the UK leaves with an agreement a transition period will be apllicable. The European commission will provide communication on the application of the existing European legislation on drug precursors regarding the trade of the substances with the UK.

Brexit without an agreement

In case of a no deal brexit the European Regulation (EC) No 273/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 February 2004 on drug precursors will no longer be applicable to the trade to and from the UK of these substances. The UK will then be considered a ‘third country’ and the legal obligations of the Regulation (EC) No 111/2005 of 22 December 2004 laying down rules for the monitoring of trade between the Community and third countries in drug precursors will apply.

Market operators which trade with the UK need to adhere to following points.

Demand an extension of the existing activity license/registration with the activity import or export.

Ask an import authorisation for the import of category 1 substances from the UK.

Ask an export authorisation when exporting category 1, 2, and 4 substances to the UK.

Trade partners in the UK need to take appropriate measures to be in compliance with British legislation.